Generation 3 in Open Sky: the story of the Mazda MX-5 NC

In the Open Sky garage, Generation 3 belongs to JDM Roadsters. Its real-world inspiration is the third-generation Mazda MX-5, known as the NC. Its rounder body and more pronounced wheel arches give it a different presence from the first generation we covered earlier. The small, two-seat roadster idea is still easy to recognize.

A third take on a familiar idea

Mazda revealed the new MX-5 at the Geneva motor show in 2005. The team wanted to preserve its nimble handling and lightweight feel while improving comfort and interior quality. Jinba Ittai, the sense of driver and car moving as one, remained its guiding principle. Source: Mazda — Geneva reveal.

Part of this generation's appeal is the combination of a familiar low shoulder line with fuller shapes. On the Open Sky screen, you can make out the long bonnet, compact cabin and open space above the two seats.

Four NC facts

• The first production car wore bold colours. Production began at Ujina No. 1 on May 17, 2005. The first car was red with a red leather interior and was destined for North America. Mazda — production launch.
• The folding hardtop arrived later. The electrically operated hardtop version joined the Japanese lineup in August 2006. Mazda — PRHT launch.
• The roof took 12 seconds. That was Mazda's stated operating time. It folded behind the seats without reducing boot space. This describes the PRHT variant, rather than every NC. Mazda — roof design.
• The generation won Japan Car of the Year 2005–2006. Mazda records the award in its official model chronology. Mazda — MX-5 chronology.

Generation 3 in Open Sky

Here the car has a light body and a line-drawn finish. Its garage thumbnail is darker and more detailed. These are two visual treatments of the same selection; the screenshot does not establish a particular model year or engine variant of the real car.

In the current prerelease build, open the garage using the car icon, find JDM Roadsters and select Generation 3. The model is on the current selectable-car list.

Open Sky is currently listed as coming soon. These previews show a prerelease version; the final feature set and premium terms will be confirmed after launch. Explore Open Sky and follow its launch.